Caffeine is a stimulant. It is used to help stay awake and to increase alertness. It is also used in combination with pain relievers to enhance the effectiveness in treating headaches.
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Overview | Photos | How
To Use | Side
Effects | Precautions | Missed
Dose | Drug
Interactions | |
Alertacaps
Uses
Caffeine is a stimulant. It is used to help stay awake and to increase alertness. It is also used in combination with pain relievers to enhance the effectiveness in treating headaches. Notes
- This medication is not a substitute for normal sleep patterns.
- It is not to be taken on a routine basis.Be aware of the caffeine content in foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, soft drinks, cocoa and chocolate.
Storage
- Store away from heat, light and moisture.
- Do not store in the bathroom.
Overdose
- Symptoms of overdose may include stomach pain, anxiety, agitation, confusion, irregular or fast heartbeat, frequent urination, muscle twitching, ringing in the ears, trouble sleeping, and seizures.
How
To Use - Take this medication by mouth as directed.
- Do not crush or chew this medication.
- They must be swallowed whole.Do not increase the dose, take this more often than prescribed or continue using this for prolonged periods.
Side
Effects - Nausea, stomach upset, insomnia, restlessness, nervousness, tremor, headache, lightheadedness may occur.
- Large amounts of caffeine may aggravate ulcers, cause frequent urination, flushing, muscle twitch or irritability.
- If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor.Abrupt stopping of caffeine intake after several weeks of regular daily use may cause withdrawal symptoms such as headache, anxiety or muscle tension within 12 to 18 hours.Notify your doctor if you experience: dizziness, depression, rapid breathing, chest pain, confusion, fatigue.If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Tell your doctor if you have: heart problems, diabetes, anxiety disorders, depression, ulcers, allergies (especially drug allergies).This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy.
- Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- Since small amounts of this medication appear in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Missed
Dose - If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
- Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
Drug
Interactions - Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take, including: cimetidine, disulfiram, ciprofloxacin, enoxacin, birth control pills, diet pills, decongestants, if you smoke.Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
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CONDITIONS
OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgement of healthcare professionals. The information
is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions
or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular
drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional
should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or
discontinuing any course of treatment. |